I have been looking up people from my past on Facebook. I happened to find the FB postings of people that went to grade school with me and I found myself feeling very sad for a few days, which really surprised me.
In grade school, I was severely bullied for being overweight. The boys wanted nothing to do with me and many girls made fun of me and excluded me from parties and other fun activities. Now on Facebook, they all reminisce about all of the fun they had and how much their friendships meant to each other. I know how postings on Facebook are often portrayed to be happier than reality, but it still hurts me that most of the kids would not give me the time of day, because of my weight. My parents and siblings also offered no support so I had a very lonely time as a kid.
I feel ridiculous for feeling sad about something that happened a very long time ago; I am way too old to waste time thinking about it. But it would have meant the world to me if I could have been included. I feel that I really missed out on some very special experiences and they missed out on a good friend.
I am glad that they had good memories of their childhood and very happy that they formed lifelong friendships. Many of them have gone on to do amazing things, and I find myself genuinely happy for them. I just wish that I could have shared those experiences.
If you have children or teens who feel left out by their peers for any reason, please be sure to offer some comfort and support. It will make a big difference in their lives.
Has anyone else experienced mixed feelings after reading Facebook?